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There is nothing nicer than having a cosy house in winter. Somewhere warm and dry to escape the cold weather and rain is comforting and something to look forward to at the end of a long chilly day. Unfortunately, for the months you enjoy the heater, there is often an expensive electricity bill looming in the future, which can add unnecessary stress and pressure in the winter months.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help take back control of your electricity bill so you can enjoy your heater guilt-free.

Save in other areas of your electricity bill.

During winter, when heating your home is a priority, it’s important to ensure that your other home appliances are operating in a cost-efficient way. Washing your clothes on a cold cycle instead of a warm or hot cycle can help to cut a significant amount off your bill. To ensure your washing is still free of germs and bacteria laundry sanitisers can be found at the supermarket effectively kill off any nasties without the extra cost of a hot cycle. Having your TV set to low brightness and checking your fridge is set at its most economical temperature are also big money savers!

Set the heater on its most efficient temperature.

When using a heater, every degree above 20, adds 10% to the total running cost. The best temperature setting for a heater when looking to save money sits between 18 and 20 degrees.

Shut all doors and windows

The harder your heater has to work, the higher your bill will climb. If you can stop warm air from leaking outside or into areas of the house you are not using, your heater will have an easier time regulating the temperature and won’t have to use extra power to heat more space than it has to.

Insulate your house

As we have mentioned above, it is important to make sure the warm air is staying in the area of your house that you need it to, and not leaking into other spaces. Insulating your house helps to ensure you are keeping the precious warm air in. The Victorian government recently released statistics that said insulating your home can save 40%-50% per year of annual electricity bills! When looking at insulation options for your home, Roller Shutters are a popular choice. Not only do they keep heat in and help lower your bills, but they also add privacy, security and light control to your home.

At the moment, Modern is offering 50% off every second Roller Shutter, which is another excellent reason to give them a call and book in for a measure and quote!

 

T’s&C’s apply. For more information on this offer, head to www.moderngroup.com.au or contact your local service team on 13 11 78!

 

What are Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters were originally designed for stately homes in the southern states of America, where winters are mild, but summers are extremely hot and humid. Traditional window furnishings, like curtains, became far too stifling in the subtropical climate, and so the plantation-style shutter was developed.

With signature wide slats, plantation shutters allow for more airflow. The permanence as wall fixtures also removes any need to swap in seasonal window covers. Overall, the simplicity of the design is not only timeless; it goes with any style of interior, from contemporary to industrial.

The Benefits of Installing Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters aren’t just universally charming. They have a lot of other attractive selling points that go far beyond being stylish.

Insulating and environmentally friendly

The shutters were initially designed to keep the sun’s harsh rays and subtropical heat out of colonial-era American homes. Plantation shutters, with their large slats, allow for greater airflow when they are open, but when they are closed, are excellent insulators and can help homeowners save money on heating and cooling expenses by helping to regulate the interior temperature of the house.
Many shutters are also made from non-toxic and recyclable materials that help you reduce your carbon footprint.

Durable and low-maintenance

Plantation shutters are built to last and become permanent fixtures on windows. Many are made with wood, PvC (plastic) or Insulite and are meant to stand the test of time. The shutters wide slats and simple materials also make cleaning a breeze. A quick dust or a wipe-down with a damp cloth is often all that is needed to keep the shutters looking fresh and new over time.

Style

The simple design of plantation shutters remains timeless. Plantation shutters are sleek and unassuming. They don’t fight for attention with other design elements and are rather neutral in appearance. Plantation shutters can fuse easily with modern, industrial, vintage, or shabby chic designs. They also remove the need to constantly update your window furnishings. A plantation shutter doesn’t need constant re-modeling or re-styling, saving you time and money during renovations, room updates, or seasonal interior design changes.

Increases your home value

Since most window coverings are temporary and easily removable, they don’t end up adding any value to your home. Plantation shutters, however, are permanent fixtures. The shutters are created specifically to fit your windows and improve the overall design of your home. They add curb appeal as well as energy savings that can boost the resale value of your home when you’re ready to sell.

Improves lighting

Plantation shutters offer an efficient way to shield your rooms from direct sunlight. You can control the amount of light you let in by adjusting the angle of the slats. This makes it easier to protect indoor possessions and furniture from the damage of extreme sun exposure over time.

Cost

The cost of your plantation shutters will vary.Three main factors usually determine the pricing: :

• The material of the shutters. Plantation shutters can be made out of different types of wood, including basswood and poplar. However, they can also be constructed of plastic (such as PvC) of varying qualities, or Insulite, a premium dense polymer that looks and feels like real timber.
• The size and amount of windows. The amount of windows, as well as their size, will affect pricing as well. Plantation shutters are all typically customised to the size of the window and made to fit perfectly, so the size and quantity will determine how many materials and hours are needed to complete the job.
• The quality of shutters. While PvC and plastic shutters are less expensive, wood shutters can get costly fast. Alternatively, insulite gives the impression of real wood while not costing quite so much.

Plantation Shutter Types

Different types of plantation windows have a variety of pros and cons. They also may require different maintenance techniques. Each has their specific look and feel that should be considered. Once again, the least expensive isn’t necessarily the best. Plantation shutters are meant to stand the test of time – if you invest in quality at the outset.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from the three main types of plantation shutter materials:

Wood

The Benefits

• Naturally beautiful. There’s something about natural wood and its grain that makes for a beautiful plantation shutter.
• Countless colour variations. Wood shutters offer unlimited colour variations to match any interior. Many clients choose to paint their shutters to match their interior trim to help them fit seamlessly with the existing decor.
• The option to use a stain. If you prefer to stain your shutter, rather than painting them, to help bring out the natural beauty of the material, you can do so with wood. Stains can also be matched to your home’s trim, cabinets, or furniture.
• Strong and lightweight. Wood is stronger than poly, yet it weighs less. It’s extremely durable and allows for larger panel sizes – whereas plastic can sag under its weight if the panel size is made too large.

The Downsides

• It’s expensive. Wood is typically more expensive than plastic options. It is by and large a more expensive option, and if you have large windows or many windows in general, you are looking at a bigger price tag.
• May need occasional repainting. Like any other painted surface in your home, the painted finish will age over time. Expect to have to repaint or restain your shutters every 10-15 years.
• Wood doesn’t like moisture. Under severely moist conditions or high humidity, wood can warp over time.
• It’s inconsistent. Due to the natural gradations in the wood, you may get an inconsistent colour application or quality.
• Not as safe or environmentally friendly. There are issues surrounding illegal logging when it comes to sourcing the wood used in wooden plantation shutters. Wood also isn’t great for insulation and poses a fire hazard.

Cost
In terms of price, wood is far and above more expensive than either plastic and Insulite. What’s more, due to the fact that wood needs to be repainted or restained over its lifetime, there’s an added cost of maintaining the wood itself.

Maintenance
The shutters may need a fresh stain or coat of paint every ten years or so. To keep your shutters well maintained ensure they are free from dust. Wipe them over with mild detergent and water to help keep them clean and looking their best. Wood is prone to warp due to the effects of moisture, so be sure to watch for signs of excess water near the shutters that can affect the wood over time.

Plastic

The Benefits

• Durability. Plastic is very tough and durable. It will hold its colour for the lifetime of the product, and never needs to be repainted or refinished.
• Less expensive. Plastic is often less costly than wood. If you are on a budget, you may want to look at plastic options.
• Impervious to moisture. Some areas are more prone to moisture. Plastic is a smart choice if you are concerned about moisture or humidity, as it will not warp in the way wood can under similar conditions.

The Downsides

• It’s heavy. Plastics have a considerable amount of weight in comparison to wood. The weight can put pressure on frames and hinges, and, if the window is extremely large, may lead to sagging of the panels.
• Limited colours. Unlike wood, which can be stained or painted to any colour under the sun, plastics are pre-manufactured in specific shades, leaving you with a set palette to choose from. Typically, plastic shutters are white or off-white. While these are acceptable in most situations, homeowners that want to perfectly match the colour of their shutters to their trim or other furniture will find these options difficult to work with.
• Limited panel sizes. Once again, because of the weight of the plastic itself, a plastic shutter’s maximum size will be much smaller than a wood shutter. This means you may need more shutter panels to cover a window opening if you decide to go with plastic.

Cost
Plastic is the least costly option when it comes to installing plantation shutters. However, not all plastics are made equal, and quality can vary widely. If the price is too good to be true, it probably means your shutters are not likely to stand the test of time.

Maintenance
Any mild detergent will easily clean your plastic plantation shutters. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best.

Insulite

The Benefits

• Has the look of wood. Insulite plantation shutters are constructed of dense polymer foam. This foam looks and feels like wood. The difference? Better quality.
• Affordable. While your plantation shutter will look like real wood, they won’t come with the hefty price tag of wood.
• Fire Resistant. Insulite needs 3 times the amount of heat to ignite compared to wood or plastic.
• Suitable for inside and outside. Insulite isn’t just for interiors. The dense polymer is safe for all environments – even exterior surfaces – meaning it’s water-resistant and won’t warp in heat or humidity.
• Made with 100% fully recyclable material. Choosing Insulite means you are lowering your carbon footprint. The shutters are 100% recyclable and made of environmentally friendly non-toxic materials.

The Downsides

• They look like wood…but they’re not. Some people prefer the slight variations you can only get from natural materials like wood. Although Insulite looks like wood, it’s not quite the same.
• The cost is still high. While not as expensive as wood, Insulite is still more costly than plastic alternatives, especially if those alternatives are low-quality.
• Limited colour options. Much like plastic and PvC, your options for Insulite colours are simply white and off-white. Luckily, these classic colours will go with any interior design imaginable.

Cost
Insulite is a good middle ground between wood and plastic. Due to its longevity and its environmental friendliness, the investment holds its own over time. The up-front costs aren’t as high as wood, and you are getting a more quality product than you would with even the highest quality plastic option.

Maintenance
Insulite shutters have some of the longest shelf life in the industry, meaning your shutters are built to last.

Insulite is very easy to clean. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth or a quick wash with a mild detergent will keep your shutters looking like new.

 

Insulite Plantation Shutter Locations

Insulite plantation shutters are perfect for all locations around Australia. Their ability to withstand all Australian climates makes them perfect for cooler climates like Victoria and Tasmania while also withstanding hotter more tropical climates like Queensland.

Insulite Planation Shutters are available in:

NSW: Sydney, Newcastle and Central Coast
VIC: Melbourne
TAS:Tasmania
QLD: Brisbane

SA: Adelaide
WA: Perth

 

Download our guide to learn more  Or Contact the team at Modern to find out about our unique Insulite plantation shutters.

Making aesthetic improvements to the outside areas of your home can quickly get overwhelming!   A great place to start is with outdoor shutters such as louvre shutters. While this option can be cheaper than other renovations, it ends up making a huge impact. We’re here to help you navigate the different types of louvre shutters designs available so you can figure out what might be best for your outdoor needs. 

What Are Louvre Shutters and What Are the Benefits? 

Built by design

Louvre shutters can consist of horizontal or vertical slats that are often tilted for ambient light while keeping out direct intense sunlight and rain. These shutters can be made from many different materials, including wood, metal, glass, or aluminium. Some louvre shutters can be adjusted easily, allowing for more privacy, full sunlight blocking, or rain protection. Types of louvre shutters include fixed panel louvres, bi-fold louvres, hinged louvres, sliding louvres, and stacking louvres. All of these types provide different functionality. 

Add value to the home

The most obvious benefit of installing louvre shutters is the increase your property value. Because of their striking aesthetic benefits they can turn an ordinary outdoor space into something unique and eye-catching. They are easier than many outdoor solutions to keep maintained, which is a big bonus when considering monetary value. Good louvre shutters are also made to last a long time and some are made from extremely long-lasting material like aluminium. 

Privacy

Louvre shutters allow for additional privacy, which means that you can easily lounge in an outdoor area without feeling like your neighbours are snooping. Different types of louvres will slide and fold to help you make an area private when you feel it is necessary. 

Since louvres can help enclose a space, it also means they can provide weather protection. High-quality louvre shutters will help block out wind and rain, which means that you can enjoy an enclosed outdoor space even if it is drizzling out. This also means that you can worry less about the furniture you keep outdoors. A good material choice, if you live in a rainy area, would be aluminium louvre shutters, which often provide better weather shielding. 

 

Different Types of Louvre Shutters 

There are many different kinds of louvre shutters that you can pick from for your specific needs and aesthetic preferences. When making a choice, it is important to think of what is functionally important to you as well as what will look best for your location.

Fixed Panel Louvres

These are easy to install and use, it pivots inside of the framework due to the C channels being permanently fixed to the top and bottoms of the application.

Bi-Fold Louvres

Allows the ability of clearing the opening completely by folding the panels and pushing them to one side

Hinged Louvres

 The benefit of these was that they swing both in and out, and also have the ability to be supplied with an L/Z frame.

Sliding Louvres

These panels can slide both left and right across tracks that run on the top and bottom of the sliding louvres. This means they are great for privacy and sun shielding.

Stacking Louvres

While similar to the sliding louvres, they have an additional H section at the end of the tracks, which allows for the complete opening and storing of the panels.

 

Why We Love Aluminium Louvres

Unlike wood or plastic that can warp due to moisture, heat, or excess weight, Aluminium is extremely strong and resistant to environmental pressures. It offers so much insulation from the elements; in fact, it can save households up to 35% in energy costs.

Aluminium offers the best of both worlds. It has the longevity of synthetic material while mimicking the beauty of timber. This allows you to balance between durability, style, function, and cost. Aluminium Louvre shutters are guaranteed not to discolour, crack, warp, shrink, or lose tension.

What’s more, aluminium has multiple benefits you simply can’t match with other wood or plastic plantation shutters, including:

• They’re engineered to cope with severe weather conditions found in Australia and have been developed to minimise noise and movement in high winds.
• All blades and panel frames incorporate high quality hair felt that provides a sealing point that minimises wind and rain effects when the shutters are closed.
• The blades are built to withstand 100kg over a 1-meter span and are the strongest on the market.
• Nylon glass reinforced pivots prevent maintenance issues that are associated with other rolling mechanisms.
• Fully customisable to fit all window situations and balcony designs.
• Multi-tracking configurations allow design constraints to be resolved.

One of the most common complaints customers have with Aluminium styled plantation shutters are the unsightly floor tracking systems. our product comes with the option of being securely attached from a top fixing. Clients still get the benefit of a secure operation, without the unattractive floor track.

With guaranteed longevity and flexible design options built for Australian weather conditions, our clients get benefits that just aren’t available from other external plantation shutter materials.

How can Modern Help? 

Modern is one of Australia’s leading aluminium louvre shutter experts. We have over 40 years of experience and are experts in helping choose what works best for a project, as well as what will last in your environment. We use only the top quality materials, so you can know that not only will your louvre shutters look beautiful, but they will hold up against the test of time. All of our Australian made shutters will provide amazing privacy for your outdoor space, as well as weather control. With us, as a quality assured choice, you can be reassured that your choice will not only be low maintenance but it will also have the benefit of being environmentally friendly. 

To learn more about Modern Louvre Shutters contact us today!

Blue skies and warmth entice families to spend more time outdoors. Enjoying the wonderful weather Australia gifts us with depends on acquiring the proper gear and accessories to remain comfortable outdoors. Home additions like outdoor blinds help make outdoor spaces more gratifying. ENVIROTEX and Café Blinds are popular outdoor blinds that help homeowners achieve an outdoor haven that can be shared with family and friends to create long-lasting memories.

What are Outdoor Blinds?

Outdoor blinds act as a barrier which protects your outdoor space from being battered or affected by the elements. It effectively shields your outdoor living spaces from harmful sun rays, rain, wind, dust, and insects…just to mention a few. Times of having to end your moments outside are in the past. On uneventful weekend mornings be prepared to enjoy peaceful moments outside a bit longer without having to worry about the assault from the sun. Confidently continue to delight in your outdoor meal as winds unexpectedly begin to gust and clouds release drizzle. 

Aside from being an effective shield, outdoor blinds work in defining your outdoor environment by creating an ideal balance of being in nature yet apart from it. This balance delivers a sense of privacy and security, allowing your outdoor living space to become an ultimate sanctuary.

What are ENVIROTEX and Café Blinds?

ENVIROTEX Blinds – made from high-quality fabric, ENVIROTEX Blinds are great at providing the perfect balance between vision and weather protection. 

Café Blinds – Made using a clear or tinted PVC, Café Blinds are designed to block out the elements while still providing an “open” feel.  

Benefits of Outdoor Blinds 

• Protect against debris, dust, and insects
  Café or ENVIROTEX blinds provide a comfy atmosphere to outdoor living spaces. They both provide protection from debris, dust, and insects as they are made from high-quality PVC and fabrics, without you having to compromise on your view.
• Café blinds are a perfect air control option
  If you are looking for an outdoor blind that provides a complete air control solution then Café Blinds are your best option.
• ENVIROTEX blinds offer a great outward view of outside surroundings in the day
  ENVIROTEX Blinds provide a wonderful balance, giving homeowners the best of both attributes the outdoors and indoors can offer. It does not block any area of your outdoor space. Instead, it permits all to experience their entire outdoor surroundings while benefiting from weather protection. The ENVIROTEX PLUS range has a light transmission of 94 percent, which makes it a favourite amongst Modern customers.

How to choose the right outdoor blinds for you
In deciding which outdoor blinds to purchase, you have to consider all aspects that will maximise your investment. Recognising outdoor blinds as an investment that returns priceless moments will encourage you to spend the time finding what suits you. 

Here are a couple of pointers to get you started in your search: 

• Fulfil your needs and your wants
  When putting what you need first, you successfully address what it takes for an outdoor blind to be useful. Get started on prioritising needs by recalling past seasons and weather changes. If it rained, hailed, and winds roared toward the end of winter, it is best to purchase an outdoor blind that can withstand such weather.
• Research options that meet your needs
  Not doing the proper research according to your specific needs will result in possible disappointment down the road. Save yourself from future headaches by looking up all options that apply to your needs. Consultants at Modern can help guide you to the outdoor blinds that fit your needs.
• Are they easy to use?
  Besides buying outdoor blinds that fit your needs, you have to consider if what you are buying is easy to use. Spending time to operate something appropriately can waste time you can not get back. Finding something that is easy to use will maximise how you enjoy those precious moments outdoors.

 Want to Learn More?
Speak to the Outdoor Blinds team at Modern to learn more about the types of outdoor blinds available and to see what suits your needs best.

As the structure covering the top of your house, the roof protects the entirety of the building against rain, sunlight and the extremes of temperatures. A cosy and leak-free home is highly dependent on the state of the roof, which is why the maintenance of this structure is very crucial for your well-being.

Many variables can affect the durability and dependability of your roof. Most of the time, repairs are needed for its preservation, but you might also wonder if you need a complete overhaul and a roof replacement. This can be tricky; luckily, there are some factors that you should consider if you are planning to replace your roof:

Age of the Roof

If your roof hasn’t been touched in quite a number of years, a roof replacement service might be the right choice. A roof may have hidden issues even if it looks good. Speaking to a roofing expert will be able to determine if your roof is in need of a complete replacement or if other options are available to you.

Shingles

Sometimes entire shingles can go missing from your roof. Though inevitable, this can be easily solved by patching up the roof. It’s more difficult to find shingles that would match the colour of an old one. When too many have been missing and your roof looks more like a disoriented checkerboard, you might want to consider a roof replacement.

The condition of the shingles should also be checked. Older roofs may have shingles that start curling or cupping (when the edges turn up or when the middle section rises up), or simply start to crack. This could also be due to extreme weather or other roofing issues but are all signs that it’s time to seek some expert advice.

Sunlight and Water Leaks

If sunlight can pass through parts of the roof, so can rain, cold air, and snow. Even a small hole or gap can weaken the whole structural integrity of the roofing system as it can dampen the underlying decking of the roof when the rain comes. These small leaks can be patched, but larger structural damages may need a professional roofing services provider. It’s also important to keep in mind that these small patch jobs can be expensive and add up over time, so in some cases, a full roof replacement would be a better alternative.

Another sign of a leak is the appearance of dark stains on the ceiling and walls. Mysterious dripping sounds coming from the ceiling is also a sign of damage. Lastly, it is worth taking note that animals such as birds, bats, and possums may take advantage of the gaps in your roof.

Flashing

Flashing is an unsung hero of your roof. Most commonly found around the base of your chimney and other corners that might need it, this keeps your roof water-tight. Cement or tar flashing is more vulnerable to water damage, which is why a metal flashing system might be more applicable for you.

Sagging

A depression in the form of the roof is usually a bad sign. Not only can it cause more trouble when left ignored, but it may also spike up costs of repair. Usually beams in the roof cause this problem, but this may also indicate problems with the supports in the foundation. Remember that this kind of problem is better to take care of as soon as possible.

How Modern Can Help

Modern has been a leader in the home improvement industry for over 40 years, offering relentless high-quality services to Australian homes. Your roof will be no exception. Our glorified team of experts are available for the roofing needs you might have. To learn more about Modern’s roof replacement services, call us today!

Everything about a home should be for the supreme well-being of the people who live there. With that said, windows and doors can play a very important role in your welfare and sense of safety but can also help to improve the look and feel of your home. Most Australians now opt for shutters for their windows and doors for various important reasons.

Installing shutters for your home may seem like a long, daunting process, with a number of factors to consider. If you are looking for your very own window or door shutters, The Modern Group has you covered. Here are 3 things that you need to know about Modern shutters:

1.    Roller shutters offer maximum security and protection

Roller shutters are mounted above a window or door, and have the ability to roll up or down. Above is a headbox which tucks in the slats of the shutter when it is not required, which can then be rolled down for protection or cover when needed. This convenient design allows homeowners to have maximum security without blocking the natural aesthetic of the windows and doors all the time.

We offer three types of roller shutter operating systems. Manual roller shutters require some minimal physical labour. The manual winder handle can be controlled to raise or lower the shutters according to your needs. Electric roller shutters, on the other hand, provide convenience and are available in a range of remote control options. Better yet, Modern’s battery-operated roller shutters give you full control of your window shutters at the simple touch of a button for the ultimate ease and comfort.

2.    Plantation shutters offer both practicality and functionality

Plantation shutters are composed of slats that can be tilted according to your needs – whether you need to let sunlight in or cover your windows from the eyes of passersby. Not only does this style of shutter make your privacy a priority, but plantation shutters also add to the beauty of the house. As if that’s not enough, plantation shutters can provide insulation through winter and summer months.

Ideal for standard windows, fixed plantations offer cost-effective light and privacy control with adjustable blades, while sliding plantations allow for a panel to slide over a fixed panel on the other side of your door or window. Bi-fold plantations allow panels to fold back on themselves for less obstruction of the beautiful outdoors. One of the most popular types of plantation shutters are hinged plantations, which have panels that can be fully opened with the help of the hinges on the sides.

3.    Louvre shutters make the outdoors appealing and secure

Our louvre shutters are made of exquisite aluminium material, providing shade, protection from the elements, and privacy from those nosey neighbours. They can be used on alfresco areas, balcony enclosures and privacy screens.

Just like with our indoor plantation shutters, you can also opt for fixed panel louvres, bi-fold louvres, sliding louvres or hinged louvres. Additionally, there are also stacking louvres, almost like the sliding model, but with an H-section at the end of the louvre track to provide the option of completely opening and stacking the louvres.

Make Modern your choice for shutters!

Modern shutters are made of the highest quality materials and can add value, functionality and aesthetic appeal to your beloved property. Create the atmosphere you desire indoors or outdoors with our state-of-the-art products. The Modern Group has the best team of experts that can answer any of your questions and help you choose what shutter option is most suitable for the needs of you and your family.  

Still not sure what shutters are best for you? Contact the Modern team to organise a free consultation today!